“I believe that anything is possible, whatever you set your mind to – with hard work and dedication you can achieve great things that make a difference in the world we live in.”
Elandré Williams finds great honour in introducing herself by her married surname but also finds pleasure in mentioning her maiden name, Marais. “This is the surname that has been and will always be a part of me,” she says.
She is a prime example of resilience and passion. She embodies the virtue of juggling many sides of life, embracing challenges, and cultivating dreams that motivate those around her as a scientist, a wife, and an expectant mother.
“Just be yourself, there is no one better.” This sentiment forms the foundation of Elandré’s life journey.
She displays a love for life and an unapologetic authenticity that is nothing short of captivating. With her husband Arthur Williams by her side, Elandré is most proud of the loving home that they have created. This includes their two furry companions, Luna and Cooper.
Professionally, Elandré is an analyst at the South African Doping Control Laboratory (SADoCoL) in Bloemfontein. Her role in distinguishing between endogenous and exogenous steroids for anti-doping purposes, underscores her commitment to both science and integrity in sports.
Her childhood was a testament to her free spirit – a “tomboy” who thrived in the outdoors and detested shoes.
“I soon realised that when you get to attend high school, one has to wear shoes and wear dresses,” she says.
She says as she grew older, she discovered her love for science, embracing a journey that led her from Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria to the University of the Witwatersrand and finally to the University of the Free State (UFS) where she furthered her studies in Forensic Science.
“After I obtained my BSc degree, I continued to complete my Honours and Master’s Degree at the UFS and have ever since considered myself as being a ‘Vrystater’,” she says.
Elandré believes that the path of a woman in science is marked by unique challenges and triumphs. She acknowledges the ground-breaking women before her who paved the way for her presence in a previously male-dominated field. She finds inspiration in the evolving role of women in science, reshaping standards and contributing to scientific progress.
Elandré’s accomplishments are as diverse as they are inspiring. Among her proudest achievements is the creation of a loving home with her husband as well as being part of a team at SADoCoL, the sole laboratory combating doping in African sports.
Her true accomplishment lies in her identity as a scientist, embracing the challenge of pushing herself beyond limits and striving for excellence.
The most recent chapter in Elandré’s life is the much-anticipated arrival of Luka-Leigh Williams, her and Arthur’s first child, in September.
“Pregnancy is a remarkable and transformative experience that I believe is different for every woman who has had the privilege of experiencing it. For me, this journey has been filled with mixed emotions of intense excitement, joy and sometimes a little bit of uncertainty and anxiety, but mostly an extreme sense of love,” she says.
Through it all, her husband has been the biggest blessing throughout this entire journey and she says it is such a beautiful thing to get to share this with their friends and family.
The balancing act between womanhood, science, and motherhood is a journey Elandré approaches with determination. She envisions a future where her son will learn that greatness is attainable through dedication and hard work. Elandré’s commitment to her career, her marriage, and her impending motherhood exemplifies the beauty of embracing life’s multifaceted journey.
While Bloemfontein might be an unconventional choice for many, Elandré and her husband have found a true home in the city.
Bloemfontein symbolises community, simplicity, and a place where cherished friendships have blossomed into family. It is here that they embark on the adventure of parenthood, adding another layer to their shared journey.
Elandré’s zest for life extends beyond her scientific pursuits. She finds comfort in moments spent with loved ones, whether it’s a casual gathering, a relaxing poolside braai, or an adventurous outdoor activity. Running is one of her most cherished hobbies as it offers her a sense of liberation and empowerment.
Elandré is a woman who defies conventional boundaries, a scientist who thrives in her pursuits, a wife who fosters love and partnership, and soon, a mother who embarks on an extraordinary journey of nurturing.
Text: JUSTINE FORTUIN Photography: GYPSEENIA LION
